WHO declares smallpox officially eradicated – first disease eliminated globally.
| Health Policy | Global Health Initiatives | Epidemiology |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: | Updated:
3 min read
In 1980, the World Health Organization (WHO) made history by declaring smallpox officially eradicated, marking the first time a disease had been eliminated on a global scale. This monumental achievement was the result of a relentless, coordinated international campaign that spanned over a decade. Smallpox, a highly contagious and deadly disease, once claimed millions of lives each year and left countless survivors with permanent scars and blindness. Through mass vaccination efforts, active surveillance, and rapid response to outbreaks, the global health community was able to halt its spread and drive the disease to extinction.
The eradication of smallpox stands as one of humanity’s greatest public health triumphs. It showcased the power of global cooperation, innovation, and determination in the face of a deadly threat. This milestone also paved the way for future disease eradication initiatives, inspiring similar campaigns against diseases like polio and malaria. Smallpox’s eradication not only saved millions of lives but also demonstrated what is possible when the world unites under a shared vision of health and safety for all.
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Primary Reference: 8 May 1980: Smallpox is officially declared eradicated

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